Share:
Welcome to Beijing, the capital of China. We will pick you up at the airport and take you to the hotel. You can ask your guide for advice and explore on your own for the rest of the day in Beijing. Relax and prepare for your great Asia Silk Road tour.
Stay in Beijing
After breakfast, your guide will take you to the Mutianyu Great Wall(慕田峪长城). This is one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall. You can explore the wall and enjoy the view. Afterward, we will return to the city. We will stop at the 2008 Olympic site. Here, you can see the Bird’s Nest National Stadium(鸟巢国家体育场). You can also visit the Water Cube Aquatic Center(水立方水上运动中心).
B, L, D, Stay in Beijing
Beijing is the political and cultural center of China. It has a rich history with grand palaces, temples, and parks. After breakfast, your guide will take you to Tiananmen Square(天安门广场), the largest city square in the world. Then, you will visit the Forbidden City(紫禁城). This was the royal residence during the Ming and Qing dynasties for nearly 600 years.
Next, you will visit the Temple of Heaven(天坛). It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an important cultural landmark in China. Emperors used it for ceremonies to pray for good harvests. It is known for its beautiful design and peaceful surroundings.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Beijing Roast Duck dinner and a Kungfu performance. Afterward, we will fly to Lanzhou. Upon arrival, head to your hotel for check-in.
B, L, D, Stay in Lanzhou
Today, we leave Lanzhou in the morning to start our exploration of the Silk Road. After a 1.5-hour drive, we will reach Liujiaxia Gorge(刘家峡水库). We will enjoy a 40-minute boat ride on the Yellow River to the Binglingsi Grottoes(炳灵寺石窟).
Along the way, we will see beautiful landscapes along the riverbank. We will spend 1.5 hours exploring Bingling Gorge on foot. We will admire ancient Buddhist statues, murals, and stone carvings. These were built 1,600 years ago. The dry climate and hidden location have helped preserve much of the color and artwork.
B, L, D, Stay in Xiahe
Today, we will visit Labrang Monastery(拉卜楞寺), the largest monastery outside Tibet. You will see the Thangka Sunning Terrace, which offers great views of the monastery and surrounding landscape. Inside, you’ll find Buddha stupas, wall paintings, and prayer wheels. Rotate the prayer wheels as you walk and pray for peace and good fortune.
After lunch, we will drive for 3 hours to Sangke Grassland(桑科草原). Here, you can enjoy the green pastures, watch yaks roam, and ride horses. You’ll also experience traditional Tibetan songs and culture. You will visit a Tibetan family, try on traditional clothing, drink milk tea, and sample hand-grabbed mutton.
In the late afternoon, we will return to Lanzhou City for the night. This is a 3-hour drive. Make sure to rest well tonight.
B, L, D, Stay in Lanzhou
After breakfast at the hotel, take the high-speed train from Lanzhou Train Station to Jiayuguan.
When you arrive, start your tour at Jiayuguan Pass(嘉峪关). This fort was built during the Ming Dynasty to protect the westernmost end of the Great Wall. Next, visit the Great Wall Museum(长城博物馆). It opened in 1989 and is the first museum to display the culture of the Great Wall in an organized way. Finally, visit the Great Wall on the Cliff. This section of the wall is built on a steep ridge with a 45-degree incline, making it look like a “Suspended Wall.”
B, L, D, Stay in Jiayuguan
After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive for 4 hours to Dunhuang. Our expert guide will take you through this historical and cultural destination. First, we will visit the Mogao Grottoes(莫高窟), also known as the Thousand Buddha Caves. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its stunning murals and sculptures. It showcases over 1,000 years of Buddhist art from various dynasties.
In the evening, explore the Shazhou Night Market(沙洲夜市), the liveliest spot in Dunhuang. Enjoy Gansu’s local dishes while strolling through the vibrant market.
B, L, D, Stay in Dunhuang
After breakfast, we’ll visit Echo Sand Mountain(鸣沙山) and Crescent Lake(月牙泉). The wind makes the sand produce a unique sound, resembling an ancient instrument. Crescent Lake has been here for centuries and is not affected by the sand. You can enjoy a camel ride through the desert, similar to the old Silk Road caravans (about 40 minutes). Don’t forget to bring sunglasses and a mask to protect against the dust.
In the afternoon, we’ll drive for 2 hours to Liuyuan Station and take a high-speed train to Turpan (3.5 hours).
B, L, D, Stay in Turpan
After breakfast, we begin our exciting day. Our first stop is Tuyugou Village(吐峪沟), an ancient oasis village 70 km east of Turpan in a lush valley within the Flaming Mountains(火焰山). Next, we visit the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves(柏孜克里克千佛洞), a series of Buddhist grottos dating from the 5th to 14th century. These caves are located between Turpan and Shanshan near the ruins of Gaochang in Mutou Valley, northeast of the Taklamakan Desert.
In the afternoon, we’ll also visit Karez Well(坎儿井), an underground irrigation system that has been vital for life in the region. Finally, we’ll visit the Jiaohe Ruins(交河故城), an archaeological site in the Yarnaz Valley, 10 km west of Turpan. This natural fortress, perched on a steep cliff, gives a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Uygur ancestors.
B, L, D, Stay in Turpan
After breakfast, drive for 2 hours to Urumqi. Once in Urumqi, your guide will take you to the Xinjiang Regional Museum(新疆维吾尔自治区博物馆). The museum showcases archaeological finds related to the Silk Road and the cultures of Xinjiang’s ethnic minorities. You’ll learn about Xinjiang’s history and unique ethnic traditions.
After dinner, board a flight to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Tashkent has a history of over 2500 years and was an important Silk Road hub. Today, it is the largest city in Central Asia and a key cultural and economic center. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and relax after the flight.
B, L, D, Stay in Tashkent
After breakfast, start your guided tour in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan and the largest city in Central Asia. Begin with a visit to the Old City and the Khast-Imam Complex, which houses the world’s oldest Quran. The complex includes the Barak-Khan Madrasah, Tillya Sheykh Mosque, Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, and the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari.
Next, explore Chorsu Bazaar. Then, take the Tashkent Metro to the city center and visit the Applied Arts Museum. After the museum, walk to Navoi Theater and finish your tour at Amir Timur Square.
After the tour, drive to the domestic airport for your evening flight to Urgench, which lasts 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Urgench at night, drive 35 minutes to your hotel in Khiva.
B, L, D, Stay in Khiva
After breakfast, start your tour of Khiva, a key stop on the Silk Road in Uzbekistan. First, visit the Ichan-Qala Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside, explore notable landmarks like Kunya-Ark, Sayeed Alauddin Mausoleum, Arab-Mukhamadkhan Madrasah, Oq-Masjid Mosque, Madrasah of Hodjan Berdi-biya, Shirgazikhan Madrasah, Abdullakhan Madrasah, Juma Mosque, Allakulikhan Madrasah, Tosh-Khovli Palace, Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum, and Minaret of Islom-Khoja.
In the late afternoon, you’ll be taken to the domestic airport for a 1-hour flight to Bukhara. Upon arrival, a local driver will take you to your hotel. The flight is subject to availability and may be replaced by a train or mini-van transfer.
Please note: If the flight is fully booked during peak season, you may be scheduled for a morning flight to Bukhara the next day.
B, L, D, Stay in Bukhara
After breakfast, start a walking tour in historical Bukhara. Begin at the Lyabi Hauz Ensemble, a peaceful spot with traditional buildings and local life. Next, visit the grand Magoki-Attori Mosque, a fine example of Islamic architecture. Continue to the Chor-Minor Madrasah, known for its four minarets.
Walk through the busy trade domes and see the iconic Kalyan Minaret and the beautifully decorated Kalyan Mosque. Visit the Miri-Arab, Ulugbek, and Abdulazizkhan madrasahs to explore the city’s religious and educational history. The Ark Fortress holds stories of the past, and the Bolo-Khauz Mosque offers a quiet escape. Finish your day at the Ismail Samani and Chashma-Ayub mausoleums.
In the evening, enjoy a National Show at Nadir Divan-begi Madrasah and have a delicious dinner at the National House.
B, L, D, Stay in Bukhara
Have breakfast first. Then, your tour continues. First, visit Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa. It was the summer home of Bukhara’s last emir. It’s a wonderful place. Here, the charm of Oriental architecture mixes well with the features of Russian architecture. Next, go to the Mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi. It’s a place full of history and cultural importance. Right after that, explore the House Museum of Fayzulla Khodjaev. It gives a special look into the life and times of Fayzulla Khodjaev.
In the afternoon, say goodbye to Bukhara. Start driving to Samarkand. The trip is 470 kilometers long. It takes about 4 to 5 hours. When you get to Samarkand, check into the hotel. Spend the night there. Get ready to explore the city more the next day.
B, L, D, Stay in Samarkand
Enjoy a morning meal. Then start your exploration of Samarkand with a sightseeing tour. First, visit the awe – inspiring Registan Square. It’s a focal point of the city’s architectural grandeur. Next, go to the Gur Emir Mausoleum. The great Amir Timur’s tomb is in it. Then, visit the ruins of the Bibi Khanum Mosque. It was a once-magnificent structure. Now it shows the city’s rich past. Also, explore the bustling Siab Bazaar. It’s full of the vibrant energy of local commerce. Don’t miss the Ulugbek Observatory. It’s a remarkable historical site.
In the afternoon, you have some free time. You can relax. You can explore at your own pace. Or you can perhaps try local food.
B, L, D, Stay in Samarkand
Have breakfast. Then start your sightseeing adventure in Samarkand again. First, go to the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis. It’s a place with a lot of history and unique architecture. Next, explore the Afrasiab Museum. You can find out about the region’s past from its exhibits. Then, visit the Tomb of Saint Daniel. It’s a very important place for religion and culture. After that, head to Konigil village. There, you can learn how to make Samarkand paper from mulberry in the traditional way. It’s an ancient craft passed down for generations. After that, have a farewell lunch in Samarkand. Taste the local flavors one last time.
In the late afternoon, we’ll take you to the railway station. Board the high-speed Afrosiyob train. The trip is 300 kilometers long and takes 2 hours. You’ll arrive in Tashkent. When you get to Tashkent, our driver will pick you up and take you to your hotel.
B, L, D, Stay in Tashkent
Before noon, complete the hotel check-out process. Then, transfer to the airport. And this 17-day Classic Silk Road tour comes to an end, bringing to a close your memorable journey through the wonders of China and Uzbekistan.
B, Depart from Tashkent
Mandarin is spoken in China with some Uyghur in Xinjiang, while Uzbek and Russian are common in Uzbekistan. English is limited but increasing in tourist areas.
Major currencies can be exchanged at banks and hotels in larger cities, while ATMs are widely available in urban areas but may be limited in smaller towns.
Avoid bringing drones without proper permits, politically sensitive materials, and large amounts of cash. Some medications may be restricted in China.
Yes, the tour includes visits to local markets, workshops, and cultural performances with opportunities to meet artisans, shopkeepers, and families maintaining traditional Silk Road crafts.
Lanzhou - Hezuo - Diebu County - Tangke County - Aba County - Hezuo - Lanzhou
Lanzhou - Zhangye - Dunhuang - Golmud - Chaka - Xining - Lanzhou
Lanzhou - Xining - Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Jiuquan - Zhangye - Wuwei - Lanzhou
Urumqi - Korla - Kuqa - Aral - Hotan - Shache - Kashgar - Taxkorgan - Kashgar
Let's co-create your adventure along the Silk Road.
Tell us your vision for a Silk Road tour, and we'll make it a reality this year.
Let your Silk Road tour tell a thousand-year-old story.
Top Destination
Information
Copyright © 2009-2025 AsiaSilkRoadTours. All Rights Reserved.
Very good tour and travel agency
chantal m –
A huge thank you to Narina at Asia Silk Road Tour for flawlessly organizing our unforgettable trip from China to Uzbekistan! We fell in love with the country’s breathtaking beauty, rich history, and the warm, welcoming people. Every moment in Central Asia was a delight, with awe-inspiring landscapes and expert guides who brought the region’s stories to life. Asia Silk Road Tour comes highly recommended for anyone planning a Central Asia adventure!
Amazing
Rosnah –
“China and Uzbekistan both amazed me! Every place we visited had a different charm, and the guides were super knowledgeable.
Excellent Silk Road tour booked with Asia Silk Road Tour
Nulemc –
We booked a silk road tour which we customised to include a day in Khiva. We did a lot of initial research on different options, including booking through a UK tour operator. In the end we decided on Asia Silk Road Tour because of their previous reviews and their flexibility. There was a certain amount of apprehension, as we had never travelled to central Asia before, never mind booking with a local tour company and arranging our own flights. Ultimately it was the right decision. Everything was extremely well organised, with all transfers, tours, and train and internal flight tickets arranged and booked by Asia Silk Road Tour.
Such a unique experience!
Heng –
The ancient trade routes really came to life, and the bazaars were full of color and life!
Uzbekistan! A hidden treasure to explore!
Susan –
This journey felt like stepping into a living history book, surrounded by stunning scenery and kind-hearted locals. Uzbek cuisine is a revelation—fresh fruits, flavorful traditional dishes, and culinary traditions treated like art. Asia Silk Road Tour exceeded expectations, delivering a perfectly curated itinerary with knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and authentic dining spots. Uzbekistan itself is a gem: pristine cities, dramatic landscapes, and a safe, welcoming environment for travelers. An unforgettable experience, made possible by Asia Silk Road Tour’s expertise!
Good！
Siti –
Loved every second! The markets, the food, the history—so rich and beautiful!